The gargantuan ‘An Unorthodox Soundtrack to the United States’ features 50 songs referencing each of the 50 states, organized by regions. 

TTo quote Team America: World Police, “America, Fuck Yeah!” Now that I’ve offended some with a totally unnecessary, profane reference to a totally novel 2004 film which includes filthy puppet sex, let’s jump right into the playlist! Much like 50 Songs About the 50 States, published in 2018, AN UNORTHODOX SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES is all about the 50 states of the United States… mostly… kind of…

For each of the 50 states, there is a song that is somehow loosely associated, loosely related, or in some form or fashion unique to that state. Like the 2018 list, some songs are more favorable than others, but there is no vendetta against of the United States.  Hey, I even apologize to the state of Wisconsin for throwing some shade – more on that later.

What is different about this particular unorthodox soundtrack is how the 50 states are organized. Rather than be boring and arrange them all in alphabetical order overall, the states have been arranged in their respective regions alphabetically.  Brushing up on your geography, the five regions are Northeast (includes New York), Midwest (includes Illinois), Southeast (includes my home state, Kentucky), Southwest (includes Texas), and West (includes California).

With 50 songs, AN UNORTHODOX SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES is a massive affair.  That said, I try not to over commentate and let the music speak for itself (famous last words).  Some of the musicians you will find on AN UNORTHODOX SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES include Brent Cobb, John Prine, Jaheim, King Princess, Kota the Friend, Maggie Rogers, and Nina Simone among many others.  So, without further ado, I present too you, AN UNORTHODOX SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES, playlist no. 96!

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Region 1: Northeast

1. Connecticut:

Emma Charles, “Connecticut”

Connecticut (EP) • Resilience Music Alliance LLC • 2020

Westport, Connecticut folk/pop singer/songwriter Emma Charles tackles the oft-neglected state of Connecticut on her song, “Connecticut” which appears on her 2020 EP, also entitled, Connecticut.  Man, that’s a lot of – wait for it – CONNECTICUT!

✓ Good Beat: The basketball program at the University of Connecticut (UConn) has had massive success.  The men’s basketball team has won four national titles (1999, 2004, 2011, 2014).  The women have been dominant, winning 11 national titles, winning four straight between 2012 – 2016.

✗ Bad Beat: Admittedly, I’m no UConn Men’s basketball fan because they are one of few teams with a winning record against my Kentucky Wildcats, but that’s not the actual bad beat.  The bad beat for the state? The Sandy Hook Elementary School shooting that occurred in Newtown Connecticut in December 2012 .  That’s much worse than the UK loss to UConn three separate times in the NCAA Tournament. 

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2. Maine:

The Tragic Thrills, “Maine”

On Florence Street • The Tragic Thrills • 2017

“I think we should sell our home and move up to Maine / On an inlet that looks toward the bay.” The Tragic Thrills take the time to characterize the state of Maine on “Maine” from their 2017 album, On Florence Street.  The same can’t be said of other musicians on AN UNORTHODOX SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES.  There seems to be an element of escapism.

“So, I’m buying a house in Maine
Where the ground takes May to thaw out
And Canada’s a thirty-minute drive.”

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3. Massachusetts:

Bee Gees, “Massachusetts”

Timeless – The All-Time Greatest Hits • Capitol • 2017

One of the classic songs referencing the state of Massachusetts arrives in the hands of one of pop’s iconic bands, Bee Gees.  “Massachusetts” appeared on one of the collective’s pre-disco albums, Horizons, released in 1968 (their fourth album overall, second released internationally).  According to the band, “And Massachusetts is one place I have seen / I will remember Massachusetts.”

“And the lights all went out down in Massachusetts
The day I left her standing on her own.”

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4. New Hampshire:

Sorry Ghost, “New Hampshire”

The Morning After • Helpless • 2020

The Morning After marks the debut album of Louisiana pop-punk band, Sorry Ghost (Daniel Anton, Matthew Polito, and Tyler Hernandez). “New Hampshire” appears as the 7^th track.

The band discusses the significance of “New Hampshire” via IG:

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5. New Jersey:

Culture, “4 AM in New Jersey”

4 AM in New Jersey (EP) • Culture • 2020

So, we soundtrack New Jersey with the song “4 AM in New Jersey” by hip-hop artist, Culture.  If you are unfamiliar with him, well, that’s because he is – at least as of publication – an up-and-coming artist. So, yeah, there’s not that much info, but the NJ song speaks for itself, and it’s a vibe…

✗ Bad Beat: Check out the video ↓

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6. New York:

The Strokes, “Brooklyn Bridge to Chorus”

The New Abnormal • RCA • 2020

“Brooklyn Bridge to Chorus” arrives as the third track on The New Abnormal, the sixth studio album by The Strokes. The groove is ‘on 10’ to say the least.  The synths are prominent during the verses, bringing a disco, new wave vibe. The guitars dominate on the chorus, providing a stark contrast, yet remaining characteristic of the 80s inspired sounds. Julian Casablancas informs us he’s hearkening back to the 80s in various instances, whether it’s “And the 80s song, yeah, how did it go?” or “And the 80s bands? Oh, where did they go?”

✓ Good Beat: Well, the state is truly a representation of America’s melting pot, which is hella cool.

✗ Bad Beat: I could mention that a certain president is from the state, but I’ll reserve my political opinions. September 11, 2001 was a horrible day for all Americans.  No further explanation needed in the least.

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7. Pennsylvania:

Bruce Springsteen, “Streets of Philadelphia”

Greatest Hits • Bruce Springsteen • 1995

Bruce Springsteen scored massive success with “Streets of Philadelphia” (Philadelphia) winning four Grammys (including Song of the Year) and an Academy Award for Best Original Song.  Philadelphia itself is one of the first cities that comes to mind when referencing the state of Pennsylvania.

“I walked the avenue, ‘til my legs felt like stone
I heard the voices of friends vanished and gone
At night I could hear the blood in my veins
It was just as black and whispering as the rain
On the Streets of Philadelphia.”

✓ Good Beat: That Philly soul sound – timeless!

✗ Bad Beat: Pennsylvania – what the    happened with the state during the Election of 2016?  My, my, my oh my!

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8. Rhode Island:

Blossom Dearie, “Rhode Island is Famous for You”

Soubrette Sings Broadway Hit Songs • The Verve Music Group • 1960

Blossom Dearie (1924 – 2009) is noted as a legendary jazz singer, songwriter, and pianist.  On AN UNORTHODOX SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES, she gives us the rare song that even references the small state of Rhode Island.  Rhode Island is lucky enough to be the only state cited in the title “Rhode Island is Famous for You,” but, the song mentions numerous other states, as you can see in the lyrics excerpted below.

“Copper comes from Arizona
Peaches come from Georgia
And lobsters come from Maine
The wheat fields are the sweet fields of Nebraska
And Kansas gets bonanzas from the grain
Old whiskey comes from old Kentucky
Ain’t the country lucky
New Jersey gives us glue
And you, you come from Rhode Island
And little old Rhode Island is famous for you.”

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9. Vermont:

Fail Better, Heal Faster, “Vermont”

Fail Better, Heal Faster • Fail Better, Heal Faster • 2017 

While the song “Vermont” by Fail Better, Heal Faster is intriguing, perhaps it’s the temporariness of the duo itself that’s more intriguing.  Basically, Fail Better, Heal Faster was a one-time project, and aside for the embedded site, well, there’s no other socials.  So, there it is.  As far as Vermont songs go, “Vermont” is one of the few about the state, and, Lou Diamond and Sam Becht at least name it within the lyrics of the song. That’s a win Vermont!

“I wanna move to Vermont, where I don’t know anyone
Stick my head in the sand
And wait for the planet to explode or take me instead…”

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Region 2: Midwest

1. Illinois:

Oliver Hazard, “Illinois”

34 N. River • R&R Digital • 2018

Oliver Hazard is an indie-folk band from Waterville, Ohio.  However, they tackle the Midwest state of Illinois on their song, “Illinois” (34 N. River, 2018).  Do they speak highly of the state? Well, it seems the experiences they had didn’t live up to their lofty expectations, judging by what happened as a result of moving/visiting there, at least narratively speaking.

“Oh Illinois
You broke me down
Face down in dirt Oh Illinois
Dressed in drag
With cigarettes and booze Oh Illinois
Stole my cat
Not coming back no more.”

✓ Good Beat: Barack Obama! Also, for the most part, you can rely on Illinois to go blue, which is good if you’re a staunch democrat like myself.

✗ Bad Beat: Rod Blagojevich… hot mess! But it gets worse Illinois… JOHN WAYNE GACY!!! 

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2. Indiana:

Adrianne Lenker, “Indiana”

Hours Were the Birds • Saddle Creek • 2014 

Adrianne Lenker, best known as the singer and lead guitarist of Big Thief, was born in Indiana, so it makes sense that she’d write a song about it.  That said, her experience during her time in Indianapolis was not ideal.  According to an article by Independent, she was “Born into a religious cult… she spent her early years living out of a van with her young parents.” Sorry Indy…

“Daddy wanted me to leave it
Indiana, Indiana in the cold
Said, ‘You know you really don't need it
leave the fame for the road.’”

✓ Good Beat(s): Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Jackson 5… Also, if you a fan of a certain basketball program, well, it was once really good.

✗ Bad Beat: Anytime Indiana beats Kentucky… 73-72 and 73-67 comes to mind.  Again, I could get political regarding a certain politician, but I’ll leave it alone with Hoosiers defeats against my Wildcats. 

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3. Iowa:

Slipknot, “Iowa”

Iowa • The All Blacks U.S.A., Inc. • 2001

The most famous song about the state of Iowa hails from Slipknot.  Fittingly, that song is named “Iowa” and appears on the band’s 2001 album which is also titled, Iowa. At 15 minutes in duration, you’d expect some in depth coverage of the state, right? Wrong.  It’s a great song, though not so much a representation or celebration of the state itself.

“You are mine
You will always be mine
I can tear you apart
I can recombine you
All I want is to covet you all
You belong to me
I will kill you to love you (love you).” 

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4. Kansas:

Gorillaz, “Kansas”

The Now Now • Parlophone • 2018

“Kansas” by Gorillaz (The Now Now, 2018) continues the unorthodox nature of AN UNORTHODOX SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES.  How so? Well, the state of Kansas is never mentioned in the song…

“I’m not gonna cry
I’ve got more time to give
I’m not gonna cry
Find another dream.”

✓ Good Beat: The University of Kansas has the second most winningest men’s basketball program.  Many believed, had the 2020 NCAA Men’s Basketball Tournament been played that Bill Self would’ve won his second championship and the programs fourth overall.  The team was ranked no. 1 in the final AP Poll with a gaudy 28-3 record.  Ballin’!

✗ Bad Beat: Dennis Rader, infamously known as BTK… Not a good guy in the least. I don’t think Kansans would argue with me either…

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5. Michigan:

KISS, “Detroit Rock City”

Destroyer • Island Def Jam Music Group • 1976

Doesn’t a classic speak for itself? “Detroit Rock City” is one of KISS’ best- and best-known songs.  Amazingly, it doesn’t explicitly mention Detroit, Michigan that much.

“Get up!
Everybody’s gonna move their feet
Get down!
Everybody’s gonna leave their seat
You gotta lose your mind in Detroit Rock City.”

✓ Good Beat: Judge Greg Mathis – this man is a gift!

✗ Bad Beat: Flint, Michigan water crises… what a mess! 

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6. Minnesota:

Dead Man Winter, “A Long, Cold Night in Minneapolis”

Bright Lights • Banjodad • 2011

The first city that comes to mind when mentioning Minnesota is Minneapolis.  Minneapolis certainly hasn’t been seen positively in 2020 with the senseless murder of George Floyd.  Of course, Minneapolis did give us the iconic musician, Prince.  Staying focused, Dead Man Winter provides us with our Minneapolis, Minnesota song, “A Long, Cold Night in Minneapolis.” Well, that’s certainly not a positive connotation…

“Let go of me darling
Before you kill me
I’m hollow and holly
Just like man
You’ll never know me
The way I know sorrow
It kinda helps nothing but it’s all I got left…”

✓ Good Beat: The Purple One – duh!

✗ Bad Beat: Police brutality… the murder of George Floyd. Enough said.

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7. Missouri:

EL VY, “Happiness, Missouri”

Return to the Moon • 4AD Ltd • 2015

“I’m out of reach / Try to pinch my cheeks / Cause you’re making me wanna sob.” So, just in case EL VY itself doesn’t sound familiar, it is comprised of some notable musicians.  Who? Matt Berninger (The National) and Brent Knopf (formerly of Menomena).  “Happiness, Missouri” might suggest positivity regarding the state, but honestly, Berninger isn’t too pleased, per the aforementioned lyrical excerpt.

“While away while someone counts the minutes
Happiness, Missouri, I got to get your mind off
By the way, I told you we were in this
Happiness, Missouri, I got to get your mind off it.”

✓ Good Beat: What about them Kansas City Chiefs?

✗ Bad Beat: Ferguson, Missouri and the killing of unarmed black teen Michael Brown.  To quote Trey Songz, “How Many Times?”.

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8. Nebraska:

Bruce Springsteen, “Nebraska”

Nebraska • Bruce Springsteen • 1982 

One of the most notable albums in the Bruce Springsteen discography is Nebraska, released in 1982.  As Ian Couch writes for The New Yorker in article “The Original Wrecking Ball: Bruce Springsteen’s ‘Nebraska’,” it was unique, thanks to its share of dark material being told from a first-person perspective.  “Nebraska,” the title track, tackles 19-year old spree killer, Charles Starkweather, who murdered 11 people.

“I saw her standing on her front lawn just twirling her baton
Me and her went for a ride, sir, and ten innocent people died
From the town of Lincoln, Nebraska, with a sawed-off .410 on my lap
Through to the badlands of Wyoming I killed everything in my path.”

Starkweather had an accomplice, his girlfriend Caril Ann Fugate, who was just 14. Ultimately, for his crimes, which took place in Wisconsin and Nebraska, Starkweather went to the electric chair.

“The jury brought in a guilty verdict and the judge he sentenced me to death
Midnight in a prison storeroom with leather straps across my chest.”

Sure, “Nebraska” is a dark representation of the state known for a championship-winning college football program, but I dare you to find a better song by a more accomplished artist, hence why I jacked it directly from my previous soundtrack to the states, 50 Songs About the 50 States.

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9. North Dakota:

Hodera, “North Dakota”

First Things First • Take This to Heart • 2017

Hodera is an indie rock/folk collective comprised of Matthew Smith (lead vocals and guitar), Doug Gallo (lead guitar), Alek Mager (bass), and Scott Tilley (drums).  “North Dakota,” per the band, via Genius “is a metaphor for a dream world where life is perfect and all obstacles no longer exist or matter. It describes wanting to be with someone despite living states away and leading very different lives.”

“I had a dream I was in North Dakota laying in a field
Where they had grown a bunch of corn, but then they cut it down
So now it’s just a place where I can lay and pretend everything’s okay
Because in this dream you were there next to me engaging in the silence.”

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10. Ohio:

King Princess, “Ohio”

Cheap Queen (Deluxe) • Zelig • 2020

Cheap Queen, the debut album by King Princess, actually arrived in 2019.  Like many musicians, she’d release a deluxe version of the album, which arrived in 2020.  One of the new tracks on the expanded version was single “Ohio.” Like many songs on AN UNORTHODOX SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES, Ohio the state only gets so much fame.

“How’s it been in Ohio, babe?
Do you think about me
When you’re going home?
‘Cause I’ve been getting rich
But everything I love is broke
So what’s good?
Is it me or is it you?”

✓ Good Beat: LeBron James  . Enough said. Also, if you’re into it, The Ohio State football.

✗ Bad Beat: The 2016 election – the state wasn’t even a battleground like it normally is! Also, the NCAA tournament performances of Cincinnati (particularly as a 2-seed), The Bengals, The Browns… lots of bad beats. Also, throw in the two times The Ohio State beat Kentucky (74-67 and 71-65).  Ugh! ↓

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11. South Dakota:

Jakey, “South Dakota”

“South Dakota” • Jakey • 2017

“When I’m gone, I hope you fuckers rest in peace.” Okay… Jakey is a YouTuber, but also a musician.  South Dakota is a state that lacks an abundance of tunes written about it.  So, why not give the YouTube musician the opportunity to rep SD?

“What South Dakota sound like (yeah)
When it’s done by me
This what South Dakota sound like (yeah)
In the middle of the street.”

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12. Wisconsin:

John Prine, “Milwaukee Here I Come”

Ft. Melba Montgomery

In Spite of Ourselves • Oh Boy / Thirty Tigers • 1999

Grammy-winning singer/songwriter John Prine was truly special – may he rest in peace after succumbing to that devastating, SOB known as COVID-19.  Prine actually earns two spots on AN UNORTHODOX SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES, beginning with Wisconsin.  After throwing shade at the state on 50 Songs About the 50 States (I chose a Jeffrey Dahmer song) because of a truly devastating college basketball result, I felt like I owed The Cheese State, even if I’m still not over the defeat.  Prine references the city of Milwaukee.

“I’m gonna get on that old turnpike and I’m gonna ride
I’m gonna leave this town till you decide
Which one you want the most, them Opry stars or me
Milwaukee, here I come from Nashville, Tennessee
Milwaukee is where we were before we came here…”

✓ Good Beat:Tyler Herro, and his style choices too!

✗ Bad Beat: 38-1 thanks to those Badgers, but even worse, Jeffrey Dahmer.  I know it’s painful, but Dahmer will forever be infamous.  And if that wasn’t enough, Wisconsin had already experienced Ed Gein…

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Region 3: Southeast

1. Alabama:

Brent Cobb, “King of Alabama”

Providence Canyon • Elektra • 2018

The most famous Alabama (the state) song is undoubtedly “Sweet Home Alabama” by Lynyrd Skynyrd.  We buck the trend on this SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES with “King of Alabama,” via Grammy-nominated Americana singer/songwriter, Brent Cobb.  FYI, Brent is the younger cousin of famous producer Dave Cobb. AllMusic had awesome things to say regarding Providence Canyon, the 2018 album in which “King of Alabama” appears.

“From Alabama ‘cross the Rio Grande
He beat the blacktop down with a five-piece band
Not because he loved it – he did that too –
But he did it man ‘cause that’s what he was born to do.”

✓ Good Beat: Alabama football.  Roll Tide! To be fair, Auburn is good too, but Alabama is more consistent.

✗ Bad Beat: The history of racism in the state. Not cool.

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2. Arkansas:

Collin Raye, “Little Rock”

Extremes • Sony • 1993

On this Collin Raye gem, the country musician seeks to atone for and escape his troubles (alcoholism) by moving to Little Rock, Arkansas.  And yes, he gets in a Wal-Mart reference for good measure ;).

“...I needed a new town for my new start
Selling VCRs in Arkansas at a Wal-Mart
I haven’t had a drink in nineteen days
My eyes are clear and bright without that haze
I like the preacher from the Church of Christ...”

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3. Delaware:

City and Colour, “Hello, I’m in Delaware”

Sometimes • Dine Alone • 2005

Canadian singer/songwriter City and Colour (Dallas Green) provides the soundtrack with its Delaware song, “Hello, I’m in Delaware.” Worth noting, however, is the fact that the song title never appears as a song lyric…

“But I will see you again
I will see you again
A long time from now.”

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4. Florida:

Jaheim, “Florida”

Appreciation Day • Atlantic • 2013

“Florida,” which previously appeared on the playlist, 13 Songs Where Black Lives DO Indeed Matter, follows the controversial Trayvon Martin case, whose verdict caused outrage.  Grammy-nominated R&B singer Jaheim expresses his displeasure, while sympathizing with the pain Martin’s parents must feel.

“Oh, Florida something’s very wrong
Need to know, what’s going on?
Can we make this house a home
Oh, Florida can I talk to you?
Can we walk and have an interview?
Florida, this land is overdue.”

✓ Good Beat: Hmm… well, there’s plenty of opportunity within the state.

✗ Bad Beats: Where does one begin? The shooting of Trayvon Martin in 2012, the Pulse Nightclub Shooting of 2016, Stoneman Douglas High School shooting of 2018, the ridiculously high number of coronavirus cases… NOT GOOD .

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5. Georgia:

6LACK, “ATL Freestyle”

6pc Hot EP • LVRN/Interscope • 2020

Yes, I’m sure “Georgia on My Mind” was expected, particularly Ray Charles’ version.  Instead, I opted for a song keyed-in on the city of Atlanta by Grammy-nominated R&B/hip-hop artist, 6LACK.  “ATL Freestyle” appears on 6LACK’s 2020 EP, 6pc Hot.

“Ridin' through Atlanta on a off-day
Hopin' that nobody double-cross me
Hit up Keisha, "Have you seen PARLAY?"
'Cause he ain't make it to the afterparty, ayy...”

✓ Good Beat: I loved Atlanta the one time I vacationed there… it’s been a while since I’ve been, though.

Bad Beat: Ahmaud Arbery’s murder, and a history of racism.

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6. Kentucky:

John Prine, “My Old Kentucky Home, Goodnight”

“My Old Kentucky Home, Goodnight” • Oh Boy / Thirty Tigers • 2019

Just to reiterate, Grammy-winning singer/songwriter John Prine was truly special – may he rest in peace after succumbing to that devastating, SOB known as COVID-19.  Prine earns two spots on AN UNORTHODOX SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES.  After representing Wisconsin first, he finishes off with Kentucky. Hmm, how interesting… I won’t mention that college basketball game again. Here, Prine sings a gorgeous rendition of the beloved state song, “My Old Kentucky Home, Goodnight.”

✓ Good Beat: Brent Faulkner and his awesome site, The Musical Hype.  Also, Kentucky Wildcats, 8x national champions in men’s college basketball (1948, 1949, 1951, 1958, 1978, 1996, 1998, 2012).  Did I mention, UK has the winningest men’s basketball program in D-1 history?

✗ Bad Beat: Anytime UK loses, especially to Duke (puke), Florida, Louisville (rare), Tennessee (too often as of late).  More importantly, the hyper conservatism of the state as a whole, voting against interests, and racial injustice. RIP Breonna Taylor . 

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7. Louisiana:

Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers, “Louisiana Rain”

Damn the Torpedoes • Geffen • 1979

Tom Petty – yet another legendary musician that is no longer with us. Sure, Petty lived 66 years, but that just feels far too short.  Like legends do, Petty left us with plenty of rock classics, including “Louisiana Rain” from Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers’ 1979 album, Damn the Torpedoes.  Sure, “Louisiana 1927” is the crowning achievement of songs from the West South Central state, but I’ve covered it a couple of times, including 10 Thoughtful Songs Arriving in the Aftermath of Tragedy and, of course, 50 Songs About the 50 States, published in 2018.

“Louisiana rain is falling at my feet
Baby, I’m noticing the change as I move down the street
Louisiana rain is soaking through my shoes
I may never be the same when I reach Baton Rouge.”

✓ Good Beat: LSU Tigers football had a beast 2019-20 season. Joe Burrow was the man!

✗ Bad Beat: Louisiana doesn’t do particularly well when it comes to flooding historically.  Of course, out of Hurricane Katrina, we found out how ‘outspoken’ Kanye West can be…

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8. Maryland:

Tennessee Ernie Ford, “Maryland, My Maryland”

Sings Civil War Songs of the South • Capitol Records Nashville • 1961

I really debated whether or not to include this particular Maryland song – it’s a polarizing choice.  That said, “Maryland, My Maryland” is the state song, and the late Tennessee Ernie Ford sings it beautifully. Worth noting, Ford released two distinct Civil War albums in 1961: Sings Civil War Songs of the North and Sings Civil War Songs of the South.  Of course, the album song of Sings Civil War Songs of the South features the controversial confederate flag, which far too many southerners still characterize as a sense of southern pride… I’ll stop there before I got off into a rant you didn’t ask for…

✓ Good Beat: Well, Maryland won the 2002 NCAA Tournament, defeating Indiana 64-52.

✗ Bad Beat: Freddie Gray, 2015… seeing a trend in so many of the bad beats?

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9. Mississippi:

Nina Simone, “Mississippi Goddam”

In Concert • Verve • 1964

“Mississippi Goddam” does not serve up a flattering view of Mississippi (sorry Mississippians), but definitely ranks among icon Nina Simone’s most famous and beloved classics.  It’s ‘real talk’ and doesn’t solely point the finger at Mississippi, though Mississippi gets the brunt of it, intensified by the expletive. Of course, Mississippi has quite the checkered past regarding racism, including the assassination of black civil rights activist, Medgar Evers.

“Alabama’s gotten me so upset
Tennessee’s made me lose my rest
And everybody knows about Mississippi goddam.”

✗ Bad Beat: Nina Simone said it best… “Mississippi GODDAM!” Extensive history of racism.

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10. North Carolina:

Little Chief, “North Carolina”

Lion’s Den • Yellow Stone • 2014

As a Kentucky basketball fan, I can’t say that I’m too fond of North Carolina… basketball teams.  I actually haven’t had the opportunity to visit the state itself, but I’ll leave it to Little Chief to sing me a little tune about the South Atlantic state.  I could write more, but I’ll just let you listen to the song from Lion’s Den on your own.

“So, take me to North Carolina
Where my baby lives
I won’t be there by tomorrow
But heaven knows I’m on my way
So take me to North Carolina.”

✓ Good Beat: Basketball rules here, as much as I hate to say it. I will say, the state isn’t a red stronghold anymore – it’s purple!

✗ Bad Beat: For us Kentucky fans, it’s always Duke, but North Carolina doesn’t get a pass either, especially with that Luke Maye shot from 2017 in that 75-73 loss.  UGH!

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11. South Carolina:

Josh Turner, “South Carolina Low Country”

Everything is Fine • MCA Nashville • 2007

Josh Turner has an absolutely amazing voice – understatement.  He uses that deep bass/baritone to sing a pretty rad song about that reminisces on his times in the other Carolina, South Carolina.

“I grew up in South Carolina
Singing all them bluegrass and country songs
I’d sing from Hannah down to Charles town
Getting all the people to sing along to what I call.”

✓ Good Beat: Myrtle Beach, Clemson football…

✗ Bad Beat: The Charleston Church shooting of 2015, perpetrated by white supremacist Dylann Roof. 

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12. Tennessee:

King Curtis, “Memphis Soul Stew”

King Size Soul • Atlantic • 1967

There are plenty of songs about Tennessee, so choosing just one is an arduous task.  For AN UNORTHODOX SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES, I settled on the late, great King Curtis and his incredibly funky “Memphis Soul Stew.” Sadly, the gifted Fort Worth, Texas-bred saxophonist was murdered in 1971 at the age of 37.  King Curtis was inducted in the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame posthumously in 2000.

✓ Good Beat: The music scene is LIT, period.

✗ Bad Beat: Those pesky Tennessee Vols, ugh.  Rick Barnes has John Calipari’s number!

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13. Virginia:

Roxy Music, “Virginia Plain”

Roxy Music • Virgin • 1972

“Make me a deal and make it straight / All signed and sealed, I’ll take it / To Robert E. Lee I’ll show it…” Roxy Music handle coverage of Virginia, which should be obvious by the Robert E. Lee reference.  Louder Sound does a fine job of telling the story behind this chorus-less song, and the beginnings of Roxy Music.

“Far beyond the pale horizon
Some place near the desert strand
And where my Studebaker takes me
That’s where I’ll make my stand, but wait!
Can’t you see her Holzer mane?
What’s her name?
Virginia Plain.” 

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14. West Virginia:

The Front Bottoms, “West Virginia”

Back on Top • Fueled by Ramen • 2015

“This is for all my friends in West Virginia.” The Front Bottoms are NOT from West Virginia.  Nonetheless, this New Jersey ‘folk punk’ collective (whatever that is), tackles the eighth and final South Atlantic on “West Virginia” from their 2015 album, Back on Top. According to AV Club, singer Brian Sella asserts the song was influenced by “fan appreciation.”

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Region 4: Southwest

1. Arizona:

Kings of Leon, “Arizona”

Because of the Times • RCA • 2007

Perhaps “Arizona” by Grammy-winning rock band Kings of Leon isn’t the most flattering view of the state of Arizona, considering it is a story about a visit to a brothel … YIKES! “Arizona” is the 13^th and final track off of the band’s 2007 album, Because of the Times.

“The lamp
Flickers in the bedroom
She must feel as awkward
Whorehouse Arizona
Now go
Stand up to a giant
Say that I’m a fighter
Too drunk to remember
Too drunk to...”

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2. New Mexico:

“Weird Al” Yankovic, “Albuquerque”

Running with Scissors • Volcano Entertainment III • 1999

I’m not going to spend a lot of time analyzing this one.  Any opportunity to feature “Weird Al” Yankovic is a good opportunity.  New Mexico should be proud, even if he’s Straight Outta Lynwood as opposed to Albuquerque. By the way, please tell me I’m not the only person that struggles to spell Albuquerque.  This would definitely be the type of word that disqualifies me from a spelling bee, sigh.

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3. Oklahoma:

Zach Bryan, “Moon in Oklahoma”

DeAnn • Zach Bryan • 2019

“Cause you look like Oklahoma / And I’ll keep you like I stole ya / I thank God when I hold ya / ‘Cause it feels right.” Zach Bryan seems to be complimentary of a particular lady, not to mention a particular state.  The country singer hails from Oklahoma, so, naturally, it makes sense he’d feel some type of way.

“You’re the moon in Oklahoma
And I’m the night
You’re the moon in Oklahoma
And I'm the night.”

✓ Good Beat: Those Oklahoma Sooners always come to play! Won a championship in 2000 with Bob Stoops.

✗ Bad Beat: Lots actually. Joe Exotic counts, but much worse were the Tulsa race massacre of 1921 and of course the Oklahoma City Bombing of 1995.

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4. Texas:

Slim Thug, “Houston”

Ft. Paul Wall & Chamillionaire

Houston • Slim Thug • 2007

“Texas tatted on my arm got Houston on my back / Cause I love the city I’m from hands up if you feel that…” Back in the early and mid-aughts, the Houston, Texas rap scene had a movement with the likes of Chamillionaire, Mike Jones, Paul Wall, and Slim Thug.  The movement didn’t maintain momentum mind you, but it did happen.  Slim Thug brings two of the aforementioned H-town standouts on the song, “Houston,” which appears on his 2007 album, Houston.

“I’m from Houston, Texas home of the Texans
Texas Tatted on my arm, Houston on my back.” 

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Region 5: West

1. Alaska:

Maggie Rogers, “Alaska”

Heard it in a Past Life • Capitol • 2019

Maggie Rogers was the NYU student who caught Pharrell Williams’ attention for her hit record, “Alaska,” perfect for this SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES.  After releasing independent projects as well as an EP (Now That the Light is Fading), she dropped her highly anticipated debut album, Heard It in a Past Life.  Notably, “Alaska” reappeared on her 2019 full-length debut.

“I was walking through icy streams
That took my breath away
Moving slowly through westward water
Over glacial plains.”

✓ Good Beat: There’s an allure about this state that many have never visited, myself included.  

✗ Bad Beat: “I can see Russia from my house.” Ugh! 

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2. California:

Post Malone, “Hollywood’s Bleeding”

Hollywood’s Bleeding • Republic • 2019

Hollywood’s Bleeding is certainly a dramatic album title. The album itself finds Post Malone amplifying his pop-leanings. For our purposes, “Hollywood’s Bleeding,” which fittingly graced 11 Intriguing Songs That are Totally Hollywood, describes Hollywood itself as place where so many dreamers go only to end up in something of a death trap. From his perspective, Hollywood is dark, disappointing, and troubling (nearly, if not fatal).

“I just keep on hopin’ that you call me
You say you wanna see me, but you can’t right now
You never took the time to get to know me
Was scared of losin’ somethin’ that we never found
We’re running out of reasons, but we can’t let go
Yeah, Hollywood is bleeding, but we call it home.”

✓ Good Beat: Hollywood.  Liberals galore.  UCLA Basketball. Los Angeles Lakers. Zac Efron.  I mean, just look at that guy. Woo!

Oh, and this scene, where he does actually wear a shirt:

✗ Bad Beat: Hollywood.  Republicans would say liberals, but I’m not republican so… Also, gang activity, various shootings, race issues as well…

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3. Colorado:

Kota the Friend, “Colorado”

“Colorado” • Fltbys • 2018

Brooklyn rapper Kota the Friend tackles a western state in his 2018 song, “Colorado” – go figure! Apparently, he’s been on vacation… Just make sure you “Do not fuckin’ at [him]…”

“I just wish ‘em well though
Hope you gettin’ money, hope you doin’ well bro
Heard your sister love me, I’m in Colorado
Do not fuckin’ at me
I been on vacation ‘cause I need it badly.”

✓ Good Beat: Well, if you enjoy smoking…

✗ Bad Beat: Columbine, 1999 and Aurora, 2012 standout…

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4. Hawaii:

Cub Sport, “Hawaiian Party”

BATS • Cub Sport • 2017

Alternative pop collective Cub Sport are NOT Hawaiian; they’re Australian.  That said, how many songs have been written about or referenced the ideal vacation getaway that weren’t written or performed by native Hawaiians.  On “Hawaiian Party,” Tim Nelson doesn’t want to hear “About your Hawaiian party.” Of course, we the listeners love to hear Nelson not what to hear about a Hawaiian party!

“On Monday, you'll tell me about your Hawaiian party
I'll hear what you drank and if you danced at the party
I will know the details like I was at this party
I don't want to see your photos, you know it bores me.”

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5. Idaho:

Josh Ritter, “Idaho”

The Animal Years • Josh Ritter • 2006

Who better to tackle Idaho than an Idaho-bred musician? Josh Ritter was born and raised in Moscow, so he definitely is qualified to pen a song about his home state.  The song is beautiful from a lyrical, musical, and vocal perspective.

“Wolves, oh, wolves, oh, can’t you see?
Ain’t no wolf can sing like me
And if it could then I suppose
He belongs in Idaho
Packs of dogs and cigarettes
For those who ain’t done packing yet
My clothes are packed and I want to go
Idaho, oh, Idaho.”

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6. Montana:

Frank Zappa, “Montana”

Over-Nite Sensation • Zappa Family Trust / Universal Music Enterprises • 2012

Frank Zappa was not from Montana but that doesn’t stop him from giving it colorful musical representation on AN UNORTHODOX SOUNDTRACK TO THE UNITED STATES. Honestly, only Zappa himself could provide such a soundtrack to the Mountain West state.

“Movin’ to Montana soon
Gonna be a dental floss tycoon, yes I am
Movin’ to Montana soon
Gonna be a mennil-toss flykune.”

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7. Nevada:

Cocteau Twins, “Heaven or Las Vegas”

Heaven or Las Vegas • 4AD Ltd • 1990

So, Cocteau Twins – like Zappa and Montana – don’t hail from the state which they represent.  Actually, the band doesn’t even hail from the United States but rather Scotland.  Even so, the collective does a bang-up job with their Las Vegas classic, “Heaven or Las Vegas,” which appears on the 1990 album of the same title.  I mean, Vegas is a common source of songwriting, and many people who write about it weren’t born there, so…

“Singing on the famous street
I want to love, I’ve all the wrong glory
Am I just in heaven or Las Vegas
Whichever’s more brighter than the sun is to me.”

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8. Oregon:

Sufjan Stevens, “Eugene”

Carrie & Lowell • Asthmatic Kitty • 2015

Eugene, Oregon – home to the University of Oregon Ducks! At least, when I think about Oregon, that’s the first university that comes to mind, particularly given their success in collegiate sports.  Sufjan Stevens wasn’t born or raised in Oregon, but he did visit his mother, Carrie, and stepfather, Lowell.  The tenuous relationship with his mother is captured on Carrie & Lowell.  “Eugene” appears as the fifth track on the 2015 album.

“Emerald Park, wonders never cease
The man who taught me to swim
He couldn't quite say my first name
Like a Father, he led community water on my head
And he called me ‘Subaru’
And now, I want to be near you.”

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9. Utah:

Brock Berrigan, “Utah”

Utah • Brock Berrigan • 2020

Perhaps you don’t know who Brock Berrigan is, so, let me fill you in.  First things first, he’s NOT from Utah, so, he’s only sound tracking it.  He’s from New York, and he’s a beat maker, music enthusiast, multi-instrumentalist, sample hunter, and town drunk.  Those are his own words – I’m not judging his alcoholic consumption.  Worth noting, besides the instrumental “Utah” from his 2020 album, Utah, Berrigan has covered the state before (“Ballad of Utah” from The Scenic Route, 2019).

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10. Washington:

Sam Kim, “Seattle”

I am Sam (EP) • 2016

Ah, Washington! Fittingly, if one city comes to mind from the Pac-West, it’s Seattle. Korean American singer Sam Kim was born and raised in Washington State.  “Seattle” is an absolutely beautiful representation of a city near and dear to Kim’s heart.

“Can I run and hide
I’m stuck inside my memories
Step away from time
Take me to a place
Where I will never grow old.”

✓ Good Beat:  Seattle, Cut (on YouTube), and Gonzaga Basketball.

✗ Bad Beat: Um, I’m not a big Gonzaga fan, but they have things rolling.

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11. Wyoming:

John Denver, “Song of Wyoming”

Windsong • RCA • 1975

One song comes to mind when I think about John Denver – sing it with me: “Country roads, take me home / To the place, I belong / West Virginia, mountain mamma / Take me home, country roads.”  Unfortunately, Wyoming, the final state on the list, gets no love in that song, so, we turn to the JD song, “Song of Wyoming” instead.  No worries – the 1975 classic from Windsong paints quite a portrait of Wyoming living. 

“Here comes that big ole prairie moon risin’
Shinin’ down bright as can be
Up on the hill there's a coyote singin’
A Song of Wyoming for me.” 

✓ Good Beat: I’ve heard it’s beautiful, especially Yellowstone National Park.

✗ Bad Beat: The murder of Matthew Sheppard in 1998 – shameful.

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An Unorthodox Soundtrack to the United States    [Photo Credits: Brent Faulkner, The Musical Hype, Pexels, Pixabay, Unsplash; Icons made by https://www.flaticon.com/authors/freepik (Freepik); https://icons8.com/icons/set/domain]

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